The University of Ottawa and its Senate, from the eyes of students

Student asks President: does the University of Ottawa plan on funding a lawsuit against me?

Former Student Senator and Former University of Ottawa Student Hazel Gashoka wrote to all Members of Senate today to determine whether or not they plan on funding a lawsuit against her.

From: Hazel GashokaTo: Allan RockCc: Senate membersDate: February 11, 2013 Subject: Does the University of Ottawa plan on funding a lawsuit against me?

Dear President Allan Rock,

On November 22, 2012, I sent an email to Professor Joanne St. Lewisadvising her that I made a video about her (video link provided below)and posted it on my blog. Moreover, I kindly asked her to provide mewith any comments or corrections which I would have also posted to myblog. The matters discussed in my video arose while I was student atthe University of Ottawa. Professor St. Lewis did not respond to myemail; however, her lawyer Richard Dearden did. On December 18, 2012 Ireceived a notice of libel from Mr. Dearden (link to letter providedbelow).

On October 24, 2011 Mr. David W. Scott, representing the University ofOttawa, advised Dr. Rancourt that “indeed, the University of Ottawa isreimbursing Professor St. Lewis for her legal fees incurred in herdefamation proceeding in the Courts against you”. As such, does theUniversity of Ottawa intend on reimbursing Professor St. Lewis forlegal fees incurred if she decides to pursue legal action against me?The Senate in its wisdom should never use public funds and studenttuition to sue a student.

Please confirm that the University of Ottawa will not be funding adefamation lawsuit against me.

Kindest Regards,

Hazel GashokaFormer Student, Honours BA with Specialization in PsychologyFormer Elected Undergraduate Student Representative to Senate, Facultyof Social Sciences May 2011- May 2012

What is wrong with you two? Did your parents not give you enough love? Did they leave you crying in your cribs for days on end? Or do you suffer from some sort of mental illness whereby you think what you are doing is in some way positive rather than defamatory and libelous to the point of being harassment. Leave St. Lewis alone. Your opinions are worthless and you should stop now before you find yourself in the unenviable position of being a paraiah within your academic community.